Hardwood Floors February/March 2017

GIVING BACK MAPEI employees donate their time at AEC Cares.

Social Responsibility

negotiated the Paris Agreement—a global commitment to reduce greenhouse emissions which was signed by 174 countries, April 22, 2016 (Earth Day) in New York. This agreement encourages businesses to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. This agreement likely fueled a growing trend toward corporate social responsibility—not just toward climate change, but to our global community that faces issues of poverty, disease, disability, illiteracy, and a host of other challenges. Corporate social responsibility can take many forms. At Tom’s Shoes, it’s part of their business model. For every pair of shoes sold, they donate a pair. The Walgreen’s “Get a shot. Give a shot.” Program, in cooperation with the United Nations Foundation, has provided 7 million life-saving vaccines to children in developing countries. Even small businesses can make an impact by starting or expanding a recycling program, using more energy-efficient LED lighting with motion control sensors, or giving staff time off to deliver meals to the homebound. Even the smallest act matters.

What Does It Mean to Be a Good Corporate Citizen?

By Katrina Olson

The term “corporate social responsibility” refers to initiatives coordinated by business that benefit society in some way and may include such tactics as donating a portion of the company’s proceeds, products or services; implementing greener business practices; or actively involving employees in a hands-on, ongoing volunteer program or activity. The goal is to make a positive impact on the environment, community or residents—in short, to be a good corporate citizen. At the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Paris, France, attendees

the magazine of the nat ional wood f loor ing associat ion

33